In seven days, God created the heavens and the earth. We read the account of his work in the book of Genesis. It’s a fascinating story, to say the least. There are those who believe every word written about the creation, and there are those who cut it apart and put it back together in an unrecognizable way. But regardless of what someone believes, the earth rotates once every twenty-four hours in relation to the sun. The sun rises and sets in precise timing. And as if on cue, the earth continues to spin in perfect rhythm. Who but God can orchestrate such an act of precision? No one. I dare to say.
And some wonder who is in command of such happenings. I dare to ask, how can one doubt who is in charge? It seems plain as day to me. Why not to everyone?
The handiwork of God is precise. It is exact and calculated. God is the architect and designer of the universe. The design and craftmanship are beyond measure. Man, of his own abilities, could perform no such feat as to design a constellation of stars, a planet system, four seasons, and food sources enough to feed every mouth on this earth. No man can do that. What man can do and should do well is care for this creation, because it isn’t replaceable.
The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. Psalms 19:1-4
Many eyes were drawn to the skies this week as a solar eclipse made its way across Central and North America. Some saw it in its totality, and others viewed it partially. Eyes were guarded with special glasses. Even for the tiniest moment in time, many eyes were focused on the sun. As if the sun were a god. As if time could stand still just for the moon to pass between the sky and earth and the skies to fade dark.
In order for the earth, the moon and the sun to be in perfect alignment at the exact moment in time, a hand much larger and more precise than man’s was at work. Perfect alignment is an exact science, not trivial guesswork. Conditions must be met. Timing counts. This same God who perfectly aligned the three orbs this week also knows the number of cattle in a field. He also causes rain to fall and plants to grow.
It appears that we have survived this mighty act of God. What was predicted by some as potentially catastrophic and a cause for concern has turned out to be a seemingly quiet affair. God’s acts of brilliance don’t have to be thunderous and loud in order to be magnificent. An act of God can be as quiet as a gentle breeze on a warm day. God doesn’t always thunder his presence and power.
This magnificent event was called by different names. Cosmic coincidence. Emotional experience. Absolute transcendence. Strange phenomena. How about an act of God? That’s the more precise description we should give. Who else could align the earth, moon and sun at the exact same time and darkness cover the earth in designated places?
What if, for one tiny moment, all eyes would focus on the God who created the sun and created this spectacular event? Imagine if we focused on the Creator instead of his creation. Oh. His handiwork is something to see. But his gift of forgiveness and salvation are eternal.
There are those who pretend to be God and work by their own efforts to change weather patterns and events. Oh. They seem to be successful. We see their results. And at times, they may have us fooled into thinking the catastrophic event was natural. But only God knows for sure what he’s done and what he’s allowed in those moments.
Regardless of what one thinks of the eclipse or creation itself, the God of the universe orchestrates each moment in time and each circumstance. Others can attempt to play God, but their efforts will fall far short. And over time, it will be obvious who the true God is. It will be obvious whose works are unmatchable and whose are false attempts at greatness.
There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, Mine!
Abraham Kuyper